Can a Washington landlord raise rent more than once a year?

It depends on the tenancy type and any applicable rent control. On a month-to-month tenancy, a Washington landlord can technically issue multiple rent increases in one year, each with the proper notice (Washington HB 1217 (2024) requires 90 days advance notice for any rent increase, prohibits any increase during the first 12 months, and caps annual increases at the lower of CPI + 7% or 10% flat. Buildings under 12 years old are exempt. The rent cap framework sunsets July 1, 2040.). However, in jurisdictions with rent caps (California's AB 1482, Washington's HB 1217, New York's Good Cause coverage), the annual cap applies regardless of how many increase notices are issued. So even if a landlord delivers two increase notices in 12 months, the combined increase cannot exceed the statutory annual cap. On a fixed-term lease, no increase is permitted during the term unless the lease itself authorizes it, regardless of state. After the term ends, the landlord can issue an increase as part of the renewal offer.

Source: RCW 59.18.140 (90-day advance notice for any rent increase, HB 1217)